Nene Valley Pipe Band based in Northampton celebrate 40 years of music
“The spirit of the pipes and drums runs strong in this band and as they enter their 40th year there is no end in sight for the Nene Valley Pipe and Drum Band”
The Nene Valley Pipe Band were formed in 1986. While the likes of George Michael and the Pet Shop Boys were hitting the top of the charts, a group was being formed who would bring Highland bagpipe music to Northamptonshire and surrounding areas.
Comprising of Highland bagpipes and drums, the band continue to go from strength to strength with a strong group of members who span in age from 70(ish) down to 13 years old.
Infact, the band still comprises of members who were there from the very first practise all those years ago. Current Pipe Major, Mick Murray and his daughter Michelle Jewell were two such members.
Michelle remembers the first nights practise. "I first started to learn the bagpipes with the band 40 years ago, and present at the very first practice, full of excitement and not quite knowing where the journey would lead... I was there alongside my dad, and somehow, four decades later, it feels even more special... What makes it truly unforgettable now is seeing the next generation step in, with my son joining us on the drums. Three generations, one shared passion."
The band is made up of families, with parents inspiring their children to join. Two other families from part of the band, including Paul Weir and his two children and Hazel Rayson (who herself joined the band age 12) and her daughter Sophia, 13.
Hazel explains, "I started playing pipes when I was 12, I left to go to university and after an extended break I rejoined the band in 2024, bringing my 12 year old daughter Sophia with me. Stepping back in on that first night back and seeing so many familiar faces, it was like I'd never been away. Nene Valley really are a family band."
The spirit of the pipes and drums runs strong in this band and as they enter their 40th year there is no end in sight for the Nene Valley Pipe and Drum Band.
For the rest of this year the band will be out and about around Northamptonshire bringing the delights of the Highlands to the masses - including trips to the Harpenden Highland Games.
The band are always looking for new members - both drummers and pipers. Information about practises can be found on their website: www.nvpb.wordpress.com or their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/nvpb